Tag Archives: break

Your dreams are finally coming true. The dorms are a distant memory, cafeteria food has been replaced with homemade meals, and your bed is just as cozy as you remembered.

Yes, I’m talking about winter break. Finals are done and it is time for a glorious, one-month break.

Winter break comes at just the right time. The stress of the end of the semester might have sent you over the edge, but it’s time to relax. Let’s not get carried away in this dreamy picture of winter break. After a few days, many college students start to develop the winter break blues.

What are the Winter Break Blues?

Most colleges and universities have extended breaks in the winter. As the days stretch on, it’s not uncommon for college students to notice a change in their mood. This could be tied to seasonal affective disorder, but it could also be a natural reaction to the change in habits and routines.

Why do students on break sometimes notice less energy, changing emotions or difficulty waking up in the morning? As the hours of sunlight decrease, the body reacts. The sudden change in environment (moving from living with friends to staying with your parents) affects students’ moods, too. Your health plays a huge role in your mood. Think about your overall wellness. Being aware of your mental, physical and emotional well-being helps you monitor your mood and emotions.

You don’t have to give in to the winter break blues. If you head into the break with a few things in mind, you can enjoy your time off and stave off the seasonal sadness.

Block the Winter Break Blues

1. Embrace the Winter Magic

Many students thrive during summer break when the sunshine and warm weather makes exercise and activities easier and more enjoyable. When winter arrives, these same college students often complain that there’s less to do.

Avoid that trap. Instead, embrace the winter season. Make a list of all the things you can do this winter. Play in the snow, hit up the ice skating rink, and focus on the holidays.

2. Soak up the Light

Expose yourself to as much light as possible. The sun’s rays do powerful things for your energy and mood, so take advantage of the daylight. Add some vitamin D-rich foods to your diet, too. Milk, eggs and salmon are rich in this nutrient.

3. Be a Socialite

After marathon study sessions, it’s time to enjoy quality time with people discussing things not related to your final exam or your thesis plans. Plan a night out with friends from home or a coffee date with your family. Whatever you do, make sure you’ve scheduled time to be social with people.